Went to the Chicago Auto Show two Sundays ago, and thought I'd share some pics and personal impressions. I think shows like this are best enjoyed with buddies. Went with Ron and Jay. Quick wrist check to see if we're dressed appropriately.

3 Speedmasters...CHECK!

This year's hot new American muscle cars include the Corvette Stingray.

They had its all aluminum frame on display.

And the return of the Dodge Viper with an 8.4L V10. In case you forgot about the old units, that's 512 cubic inches!!!
This year I noticed three common main themes, or "design language" across many brands. First, the proliferation of Aston Martin-like grills.

The Ford Fusion
Even the Focus has it a bit...

But it's not just Ford, Toyota has jumped on this band wagon.

Even the new Kia Cadenza. Compared to the Optima I think they tucked in the tips of the butterfly wings a bit which morphs it closer to the Aston.

Ahhhh....the original.

Second theme: Matte paint jobs...(which I'm not sure I like).
A matte Malibu

Matte Chrysler 300

Even a matte Fiat 500

Matte Lambo...OK that one looks good.

Third main theme: The use of visible carbon fiber. Whether as structural elements or just decorative accents, there was CF everywhere!

Not too surprising to see it on a high end performance cars like this Viper's spoiler.

Nissan GT-R's spoiler.

Jaguar F-type's wheels.

But then it was also on the hood of a Camaro.

Forgive me if I reuse this one for future scan days...

But I wasn't expecting to see it on lower end cars like on this Toyota Corolla!
OK, it's a "concept car" Corolla, but still!